[Question #1093] Trying to asses STD risk

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99 months ago
I had unprotected anal sex with a 47 year old, married, white female. It was only for a minute or two. I never experienced any symptoms of anything myself. About a week to 10 days later, I had unprotected intercourse with my partner. A day or two later, she began having  heavier than normal discharge, but no other symptoms. That lasted for two weeks. A week after it cleared up, we had sex again. Two days later, more heavier discharge and almost a week later, vaginal itching.

Is there any likelihood that this heavy discharge and itching is being caused by an std that I may have gotten from the 47 year old woman? Is it likely related at all? What do you suspect is the cause?
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
99 months ago

Welcome to the Forum.  I will be happy to address your question.  Unless there is some reason for concern that you have not mentioned, the chance that your casual partner had an STI of any sort is incredibly low -STI rates drop precipitously in women over 30, even more so in women over 40.  Further, without symptoms yourself and with increased discharge which resolves on its own over a few days on the part of your regular partner, the history you provide is in no way suggestive of any STI.  Thus in terms of a traditional STI, I see no reason for concern for either you or your partner and need for testing.

One possibility here is that, related to your infidelity, you are being more alert and attentive you your regular partner's vaginal health than usual.  This is a common event.  Most women have a certain amount of normal vaginal discharge which can fluctuate in quantity and quality (in terms of thickness, etc.)  over the month with normal hormonal fluctuation.  This typically goes unnoticed (or uncommented upon) unless attention is brought to it.  In addition, unprotected intercourse itself can result in fluctuations on vaginal discharge as well. 

I hope my comments are reassuring and would not worry in terms of STI about this exposure.  EWH

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99 months ago
I appreciate your advice. I wouldn't have know about her symptoms if she hadn't told me she was experiencing them and was concerned about it, but it sounds like there is no need for concern. Let's hope!
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
99 months ago
Correct, I would not worry.  Thanks for the clarification.  Take care. EWH
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